Cradle Safety
Back Hook Chain Configuration
These rigging configurations are a common point of confusion within the industry. The configuration Shown is not typically treated as a true round load arrangement, as one chain link is supporting the load by being back hooked into the second leg’s endless loop. This changes the load distribution and bearing surface through the connection point.
Best practice is to “handshake” the hooks (hook to hook connection) where appropriate. This may then allow the configuration to be treated more closely as a cradle arrangement on a round load, potentially providing a greater Safe Working Load Limit (SWLL), subject to OEM guidance, sling configuration, and site requirements.
Chain Cradle Through Shackle
This configuration is not typically treated as a true cradled leg, as the bearing angle is less than the diameter of the chain and load distribution may be concentrated onto limited chain contact points.
Assess the edge condition, chain bearing radius, and load distribution before lifting. If a minimum of two chain links are properly supporting and sharing the load, the configuration may then be considered more closely as a multiplier style assembly, subject to OEM guidance, sling geometry, and site requirements.